If you like a cinematic experience when you go to the movies, but you don't like huge ticket prices and other people's chat, turn your living room into a home theater. You just have to make sure you have the right kit, including an AV receiver.
In fact, buying the best TV on the market may bring the big movie screen into your home, but the audio rarely matches. This means that if you want high-end sound to get the most out of your 4K TV, you should also buy an AV receiver.
Don't forget that Black Friday and Cyber Monday will probably have some cool deals on AV receivers, although we've listed the best AV receivers for different budgets below, if you have a price range in mind.
What is an AV receiver, ask yourself? It may sound like complex audio equipment, but it is actually a way to control your audiovisual settings. AV receivers will take the audio track from any TV show, movie, CD, or video game you play or watch, process the sound, and send it to your connected speakers.
AVRs are the only way to power 5.1 and 7.1 speaker setups outside of a soundbar, and they also house a multitude of ports that allow you to keep all your devices connected at all times. This is important because the best AV receivers are essentially the central base to which all your entertainment equipment will have to connect and communicate.
Even if you have many other devices, it means that the transition between them will be seamless, no matter what you try to read, watch or listen to, you will always get an incredible entertainment experience that will rival your closest cinema screen. .
How to choose the best AV receiver for you
If you have a 4K setup at home, you should look for a receiver with a multitude of HDCP 2.2-compliant HDMI ports. If you really want to go high-tech with your setup and invest in multi-room streaming, you need to think about the right wireless speaker system for you: Chromecast, Heos, or even Yamaha MusicCast. Even if it is not something that interests you at the moment, it makes sense to prepare your installation for the future.
For many people, Dolby Atmos will be the flagship application. This 3D audio system is now the benchmark for immersive audio. It may be available on soundbars, but only an AV receiver offers true Dolby Atmos audio overload.
All you need to do is decide if you want a seven or nine channel system. (Having said that though, you may not need Dolby Atmos at all, in which case a standard 5.1 audio system will fill your surround sound perfectly.)
Did we convince you that you still needed an AV receiver? The next step is to determine which one is the best for you. Fortunately, we have a great list of all the best AV receivers you can get today.
Best AV receivers on a budget
Onkyo TX-NR676
A cost-effective receiver with excellent features and performance.
Power (declared): 9 x 100W per channel | Dolby Atmos: Yes | HDMI: 7 inputs, 2 outputs | AV inputs: 2 x composite; 2 x digital audio | Weight: 27,6 lbs (12,5 kg)
Tons of inputs and outputs.
Decent wireless support
Easy to use
Needs more streaming support
Gone are the days when buying a receiver that supports surround sound with multiple HDMI ports involved spending an arm and a leg. Today you can get a great receiver that supports a surround sound setup for under € 500 / € 600. Take the Onkyo TX-NR676 for example.
This isn't the only receiver in its price range with a broad feature set or a large number of inputs, but there are few comprehensive packages as easy to assemble, configure, and use as those available in the industry. # 39; Onkyo.
In terms of expected sound performance, Onkyo has long offered excellent sound quality and this receiver is no different. The receiver supports DTS: X and Dolby Atmos, which helps give the sound a much more immersive feel.
We found that the receiver generally sounds good at all volumes. At low volumes, there was still a lot of clarity and detail, while higher volumes produced little distortion, which was nice to listen to. Extremely fine-tuned ears can lose exclusive little detail at higher volumes, although the receiver always outperforms its price range in terms of sound quality.
If you are looking for a great A / V receiver and have a maximum budget of € 400 / € 600, the Onkyo TX-NR676 is the solution.
Read the full review: Onkyo TX-NR676
Sony STR-DN1080
An innovative and affordable Dolby Atmos AV receiver with lots of tips
Output power (claimed): 7 x 165 W into 6 ohms | Dolby Atmos: Yes (5.1.2) | HDMI: 6 inputs, 2 outputs | AV inputs: 3 x composite; 2 x digital audio | Dimensions: 430 (l) x 156 (h) x 331 (d) mm | Weight: 9,7 kg
Dynamic film performance
Virtual Surround Speaker Technology
Frustrating user interface
Difficult cosmetic design
The night may be too late, but Sony's first Dolby Atmos AV receiver has some great features. While this is apparently a seven-channel design (meaning it can run on a Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 setting), there are also two rear ghosts that create pseudo-seven surround sound. The receiver can even virtually move the physical position of its speakers to create a better sound balance.
The quality of the construction is commensurate with its price. This isn't a heavyweight, and the fascia looks too hard, but the hair finish is a premium touch. The connectivity is good. We have six HDMI inputs, all HDCP 2.2 compliant. There are also two HDMI outputs, for combined TV and projector use. There are also two analog AV inputs, plus a pair of stereo phones and two digital audio inputs.
The AVR connects via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth with NFC for quick coupling, plus Airplay. The AVR also has Chromecast built in. This is the set of checked wireless boxes.
The latest version of Sony's automatic calibration software, which now includes a 31-band graphic equalizer and stereo microphone for calibration, makes setup easy.
Ease of use is average. The receiver relies heavily on its user interface, which is nice but a bit frustrating at times.
The performance is great for the price. The STR-DN1080's tonne may not be particularly hot, but it's exciting. Movies benefit from consistent steep and panoramic dynamics. The output power is indicated at 7 x 165 W at 6 ohms. The biggest surprise is the effectiveness of the rear ghosts, which really help fill in the immersive rear scene. This sonic deception positions the STR-DN1080 above a standard 5.1.2 model, but below a true nine-channel amplifier.
Overall, it is an exciting and innovative Dolby Atmos AV receiver. Think of it as a brilliant home theater deal.
Marantz NR1607
This ultra-slim Dolby Atmos receiver can smash loud and strong when needed
Output power (claimed): 7 x 50 W into 8 ohms | Dolby Atmos: Yes (5.1.2) | HDMI: 7 inputs 1 output | AV inputs: 6 x digital audio (2 x optical and 4 x coaxial) three stereo phono inputs, 3,5mm stereo mini-jack, six stereo phono inputs | Dimensions: 440 (l) x 376 (d) x 105 (h) mm | Weight: 8.3kg
Easy to adjust the size.
Generous list of features
Not a volume monster
Single HDMI output
Latest update to the popular Slimline NR line, the Marantz Dolby Atmos-powered NR1607 packs many features into a compact frame.
You can choose between an Atmos 5.1.2 configuration or a 7.1 flat surround. Wireless connectivity is available via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or AirPlay.
The seven HDMI inputs on the back support 4K resolution with HDCP 2.2. However, there is only one HDMI output. It is connected to two digital audio inputs (one coaxial, one digital) and three analog AV inputs. On the front panel, there is another HDMI and USB input with iOS Digital Direct.
Audyssey provides automatic room correction using a supplied microphone. It does a reasonable job adapting the receiver to the listening room.
The 50W power rating may be modest, but this little box can hit hard and hard when you need it, too. Atmos' subtle and immersive 3D sound handles well here too; The panoramic audio and the overheads are very attractive.
The receiver is more than confident with two-channel sources, though it lacks the zing of some of its more expensive rivals. Although the power output is sufficient for small movie theaters, larger movie theaters can be a challenge. The edge exceeds 80 on the volume meter and the midrange dries out.
Overall, the NR1607 can be considered a powerful ultraslim Dolby Atmos receiver. HDMI connectivity is at the forefront of the class and our only complaint is the lonely output, which could limit your options if you want to use both a screen and a projector.
The best AV receivers under € 1,000 / € 1,000
Yamaha RX-A880 AV Receiver
Powerful and affordable, the RX-A880 is the best mid-range AVR
Output power (claimed): 7 x 100 W into 8 ohms | Dolby Atmos: Yes (5.1.2) | HDMI: 8 inputs 2 outputs | AV inputs: 3 x composite; 2 x digital audio | Dimensions: 435 (W) x 171 (H) x 382 (D) mm | Weight: 10,5 kg.
Tons of connectivity
Super sound
Dolby Atmos support
Dated interface
The Yamaha RX-A880 is a great option for those looking for a powerful yet affordable receiver. Not only does it sound good, but it has a ton of ports, supports a variety of wireless standards, and works with MusicCast too.
If you're looking for a receiver with Dolby Atmos support that is flexible for your room and has the money you need, the Yamaha RX-A880 is the answer. However, if you prefer to save money but still want to support 7.1 channels, we recommend the Onkyo TX-NR676.
New and improved for 2018, the RX-A880 has seven HDMI input ports, all also HDCP 2.2 compliant, which solves one of the biggest problems of the receiver's predecessor, the Yamaha RX-A860, and a few other analog input ports, so older fonts should work.
The receiver is capable of outputting audio at 110W per channel at 8Ω, which is great for those looking for powerful and powerful sound. Even in large rooms, this receiver shouldn't have a hard time filling the room with loud sound, as long as you have the right set of speakers.
Also, don't forget that the RX-A880 supports Dolby Atmos. If you have enough speakers to set up the entire system, you will find that you are immersed in everything you watch with Dolby features. However, even when we only had a 5.1 channel setup, we felt like we would never have to go back to the cinema.
Denon HEOS AVR
This multi-room receiver is a bright and lively listener.
Output power (claimed): 5 x 50 W into 8 ohms | Dolby Atmos: No | HDMI: 4 inputs 1 output | AV inputs: 2 x digital audio (1 x optical and 1 x coaxial), 3,5mm stereo minijack, stereo phono | Dimensions: 434 (W) x 90 (H) x 277 (D) mm | Weight: 6kg.
Revolutionary design
Compatible with HEOS multi-room wireless speakers
Does not support Dolby Atmos
Fun for movies, not so much music.
It's not uncommon for us to see something radically different in the world of AV receivers, but this HEOS model is quite eligible. To begin with, this seems fundamentally different from the herd. There is no display on the front panel. Rear connectivity has also been reduced. With its 90mm height, this compact is refreshing.
The build quality is excellent. Just a volume knob on the extruded aluminum dash makes the AVR impossible to play.
There are four HDMI inputs and one output, all of which are HDCP 2.2 compliant. There are only two digital audio inputs (coaxial and optical), plus analog stereo, 3,5mm mini jack, USB, and Ethernet LAN. Wireless connectivity covers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies.
Perhaps surprisingly, this is a 5.1 channel design that does not support Dolby Atmos. The interest of the receiver lies in the integration of HEOS wireless speakers. Although wired rear speakers are provided, the system is designed to work with HEOS wireless backs. In most systems, only the front left / right will be attached. It can also be combined with a dedicated wireless HEOS subwoofer.
Although a remote control is provided, it is a basic zapper. There is no screen either. Configuration and control is done through a HEOS app.
For our audition, we have paired the AVR with a pair of HEOS 1s on the back and the HEOS wireless subwoofer. With grouped speakers, the package becomes a 5.1 operating system. No further calibration is required.
The HEOS AVR may not be a power station, but it's a bright and lively listener. The receiver delivers multi-channel movie soundtracks brilliantly. It's clear and exciting, especially when there's a lot going on on the soundstage (try it out with Edge of Tomorrow Blu-ray, then be wowed by the DTS HD Master Audio soundtrack that unleashes chaos around every corner).
However, this is not a particularly musical AVR. Pop and rock are pretty fun, but it adds a classic or jazzy sound and its spatial delineation gets a little blurry.
Using wireless backups can cause problems. Although latency is not an issue, we were aware of occasional low-level bursts.
As an ambitious remodel of the classic home theater receiver, we consider this first HEOS AVR to be a qualified success. Cosmetics are admirable, and for dedicated multi-room HEOS users, wireless interactivity is a boon. Using an app for control seems perfectly logical, the only problem we run into if your streaming audio sources are also app controlled and need to be juggled right away. HEOS app. This may not be the future of AV receivers, but it is nevertheless a new way of thinking.
- This product is only available in the United States and the United Kingdom at the time of writing. Australian Readers: Discover a Great Alternative to the Marantz NR1607
- Looking for a good movie to put your audio system to the test? Take a look at our list of the best science fiction movies.
The best AV receivers, whatever the price
Denon AVR-X4300H
Exceptional performance in all respects.
Power output (claimed): 9 x 200W into 6 ohms | Dolby Atmos: Yes (7.1.2) | HDMI: 8 inputs 3 outputs | AV inputs: 4 x composite; 4 x digital audio (2 x optical and 2 x coaxial) | Dimensions: 434 (W) x 389 (D) x 167 (H) mm | Weight: 13,5 kg
Powerhouse movie performance
Nine channels of amplification.
HEOS compatibility
Go overboard if you're not teaming up with awesome speakers
If you want an uncompromising Atmos experience, a nine-channel AV receiver is definitely worth opting for. With this great Denon, you can go for 5.1.4 or 7.1.2, which makes all the difference in overall performance. There is currently a treatment for eleven channels if you want to add additional amplification.
But it's not just immersive audio for this beast. The suffix H indicates that it is also compatible with HEOS multiroom. You can read or forward content to and from other connected HEOS components. Play a CD on your Blu-ray player and you can put music in Zone mode through your theater system and all connected HEOS speakers.
The build quality is stellar. The receiver has a copper-plated chassis with a one-piece construction. There are seven HDMI inputs on the back, plus one on the front fascia. All support 4K HDCP 2.2 sources. There are also three HDMI outputs.
There are also a multitude of other inputs, including four digital audio inputs (split between digital and coaxial optical), six analog stereo pairs, and a phono turntable (MM) stand. You can also stream continuously over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
The power output is prodigious, 9 x 200 W at 6 ohms. This does not mean that you should play very hard, but that he can hit easily without effort or distortion.
The user interface is fluid, with high-resolution graphics that guide you through the setup process. Automatic calibration is through Audyssey.
Denon's performance is exceptional in every respect. He does a fabulous job with multi-channel Dolby Atmos soundtracks, both explosive and atmospheric, and is no stranger to music. Under the hood are the fourth generation SHARC DSP processors. Spatial imaging and transient attack are excellent.
Overall, we consider this Denon a home theater superstar. It is heavy and enormously powerful. But there is agility behind the muscles. In short, he is a fabulous home theater artist.
- This product is only available in the United States at the time of writing. Australian and British Readers: Discover an Interesting Alternative to Denon HEOS AVR
Arcam FMJ AV850
Arcam's best AV receiver to date, but its specs are frugal
Output power (claimed): 7 x 100 W into 8 ohms | Dolby Atmos: Yes (5.1.2) | HDMI: 7 inputs 3 outputs | AV inputs: 6 x digital audio (2 x optical and 4 x coaxial) three stereo phono inputs, 3,5mm stereo mini-jack, six stereo phono inputs | Dimensions: 433 (W) x 425 (D) x 171 (H) mm | Weight: 16,7 kg
Sublime musical performance
Advanced automatic calibration system.
Only seven channels of amplification.
Outdated user interface
Although the Arcam AVR850 is unlikely to win an award, it is incredibly expensive for a Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 design, its overall musicality is hard to beat. This is probably the best audio and sound receiver from the British audio specialist to date.
The AVR850 uses a class G power amplifier, rated at 100W per channel conservatively.
The design is understated, with a beautiful matte finish and a large central volume knob. He tipped the scale to 16 kg.
The connectivity is good. There are seven HDMI inputs, all with HDCP 2.2 support, plus three HDMI outputs. Audio options include six analog inputs and six digital audio inputs.
The really significant difference here, compared to previous Arcam home theater boxes, is in providing Dirac Live room calibration.
Perhaps the most advanced automatic calibration technology available on the market, it does an incredible job of precisely tuning the receiver in the listening room. The Dirac setup is not done by the receiver with a microphone, but through a laptop. Sounds complicated? Do not worry. Buyers will perform part calibration by the dealer supplying the receiver.
While Dirac is the pinnacle of sophistication, the user interface is pretty basic - just a plain text box. Arcam doesn't even try to impress here.
The receiver does sound great though, with accurate images that take full advantage of Dolby Atmos encoding. It's tight and powerful with action sequences and delicious with two-channel music. This number of options may seem inexpensive, but in terms of returns, your investment will pay off as you go.
The Arcam AV850 can be extremely expensive for a seven-channel amp, but by Dirac's criteria, it's clearly working. We are ready to forgive you all weaknesses.
Image credits: LaComparacion